Guo'en Temple (Sixth Patriarch's Hometown)
国恩寺
The hometown and nirvana site of Chan Sixth Patriarch Huineng. This ancient Tang-dynasty temple is built into a mountain and is one of the pilgrimage sites of the Southern Chan ancestral seat.
Guo'en Temple lies on Longshan Mountain in Jicheng Town, Xinxing County, in Yunfu City. It was founded in the first year of the Hongdao era of the Tang dynasty (683) by Huineng, the Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism, who built it after returning to his hometown. Huineng passed away here in his later years, and Emperor Zhongzong of the Tang dynasty bestowed the name 'Guo'en Temple,' meaning 'National Grace.' The temple climbs the mountain in tiers, with a mountain gate, Mahavira Hall, Sixth Patriarch Hall, Baoen Pagoda and a lychee tree planted by the Sixth Patriarch himself. Nearby, the Sixth Patriarch's former residence, Longtan Temple and Cangfo Hollow all belong to the Sixth Patriarch's Hometown resort area. Entry is free, though some attractions within the scenic area charge separately. The temple is about 60 km from central Zhaoqing, roughly one hour by car, and it suits a day trip combined with the Duanzhou city center. Dress appropriately and keep quiet while paying your respects.
Opening hours
About 08:00–17:30
Nearby sights
- Bao Gong Cultural Park
- Yuecheng Longmu Ancestral Temple
- Mei'an Temple
- Liqiao Tower
- Zhaoqing Song City Wall
- Zhaoqing Museum
- Yuejiang Tower
- Zhaoqing Prefectural Confucian Academy